Greg, nice work. Both MMI and Indigo offer new "lighter" springs that advance the timing a bit faster than the stock springs. The "quicker" advance is because the fuels today "burn" better.
Removing the weights and springs from their posts is an easy task, HOWEVER getting the springs off the posts must be done with a bit of care so you don't change their "length", very important. The removal will allow for easier cleaning
.
The new quicker springs are certainly worth the effort if you have the distributor apart.
Dave Neptune